Monday, December 12, 2011

Guiseley overcome early injuries to make Trophy progress

Guiseley were victorious in their FA Trophy tie at home to FC United of Manchester but the Lions were far from rampant.

Steve Kittrick’s men booked their place in tomorrow’s second-round draw but it was more of a workman-like display, rather than a mesmerising performance.

That is probably paying due credit to FC United, who may be a step below Guiseley on the football pyramid but still present a formidable challenge.

The hosts were forced into first-half alterations to their game plan when they suffered two early injuries, with striker Danny Forrest (hamstring) and midfielder Danny Boshell (groin) both being forced off.

They were already without Chris Senior, who is on loan from Blue Square Bet Premier Division outfit Alfreton Town. His parent club’s manager Nicky Law did not want his player cup-tied.

Despite the shuffling of his pack, Kittrick’s side did force openings in the goalless first half.

Ciaran Toner fired over in the first minute and Andy Holdsworth shot just wide two minutes later.

Former Huddersfield Town player Holdsworth went close again midway through the half when he headed over from a Dave Merris cross.

Gavin Rothery had a shot deflected for a corner and Toner twice went close again before Joe O’Neill, who had replaced Forrest, put the last chance of the first half off target.

FC United had more possession after the break then they had enjoyed in the first period and it took Guiseley a while to create another opening.